This article includes a comprehensive list of rear-end collision injuries, along with common causes and legal recourse for this kind of accident in Tennessee.
You may think of rear-end collisions as “fender benders,” but these accidents can range from minor bumps and dents to major crashes resulting in serious injuries. No matter where your accident falls on that spectrum, it’s important to get medical care for your injuries right away, as well as to seek expert legal advice to protect your rights. Our experienced car accident attorney in Clarksville, TN, can help you do just that.
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Common Causes of Rear-End Collisions
Rear-end collision injuries can be caused by a variety of driver- or road-related issues. Common causes of rear-impact vehicle crashes include:
- Distracted driving due to phone usage or eating while driving
- Adjusting the radio or another part of the console while driving
- Driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Exceeding the speed limit, resulting in an inability to stop on time
- Driving without appropriate stopping distance between cars, often called tailgating
- Driver fatigue or error
- Hazardous weather that impacts road conditions
Common Types of Rear-End Collision Injuries We See in Clarksville
Depending on the severity of the crash, a rear-end collision can cause injuries ranging from minor bumps or bruises to serious and even life-threatening injuries. Injuries that commonly occur in a rear-end collision include:
- Whiplash. If your head is unexpectedly and quickly pushed forward, you may experience pain and soreness from whiplash. In extreme cases, whiplash can cause muscle and nerve damage.
- Back strain. Back strain is a soft tissue injury that involves twisted, pulled, or torn muscles or tendons. It can cause pain, cramping, and decreased range of motion.
- Herniated discs. A herniated disc, also known as a slipped disc, occurs when the core of a spinal disc tears through the disc’s exterior. It may cause little to no pain, or it may cause symptoms like numbness, tingling, muscle weakness, arm pain, or leg pain.
- Spinal injuries. These include spinal stenosis, where the spaces of the spine narrow and put pressure on the nerves, spinal fractures, and more.
- Broken ribs. If the wheel, seat belt, or airbags slam into the driver or passengers, victims may suffer from the pain and limitations of broken ribs.
- Hand, wrist, or arm injuries. If you use your arms and hands to brace for impact, you may experience soft tissue injuries or broken bones in your hand, wrist, or arm.
- Lacerations or other facial injuries. Impact with surfaces within the car or debris from shattered windows or other items in the car may cause facial cuts and other injuries.
- Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). The force caused by inertia during a sudden stop or force from hitting surfaces or items within the car may cause a traumatic brain injury.
- Crush injuries or amputations. If a rear-end collision causes a car to hit another vehicle or surface, the driver or passengers may be at risk of being crushed if the front of the car crumples. Such injuries can be severe and may even lead to amputation.
- Internal injuries. Depending on how severe the force of the crash is, victims may experience internal bleeding that requires immediate medical attention.
Legal Options After Being Injured in a Rear-End Collision
If you have suffered rear-end collision injuries, you may be eligible for economic and non-economic compensation related to the damages you have suffered.
- Economic damages. If your injury required medical treatment and caused you to miss work, you may be eligible to receive compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and property damage.
- Non-economic damages. Depending on the severity of your injuries and their impact on your daily life, you may be eligible for damages related to pain and suffering and emotional distress, as well as possibly for factors like disfigurement and/or loss of enjoyment of life.
What Should I Do After a Car Accident in Clarksville?
If you experience a rear-end collision, keep these important post-accident steps in mind:
- Call 911.
- Seek immediate medical attention.
- Collect contact information from involved parties and witnesses.
- Gather evidence to document the scene of the crash.
- Contact an experienced car accident attorney.
- Let your attorney handle all discussions with the driver’s insurance company.
Following the above steps can help you avoid making mistakes that could compromise your ability to get the compensation you deserve. Some of the most common mistakes people make after accidents include admitting fault, not calling the police, failing to gather evidence, not seeking medical attention, and not hiring an experienced car accident attorney.
Schedule a Case Evaluation With Our Clarksville Car Accident Attorney
At Get Pete Law, we can help you avoid these common mishaps and support you throughout every step of the legal process. When you work with our team, you’ll be able to leave the legal procedures to use so you can focus on healing from your physical and emotional injuries. Don't just take our word for it, though. Read our online reviews to see how actual clients have fared working with us.
Click the button above to request a free consultation with our Clarksville car accident attorney. For immediate assistance, call 1-877-GetPete now!
